For a song

usgb
adverb

To buy or sell something at a very cheap price.

He bought the car for a song because the owner was desperate to sell.
Visual representation of "for a song" - To buy or sell something at a very cheap price

Often appears as...

  • buy for a song
  • sell for a song

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "for a song"
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Idiomatic Usage

Used especially in informal contexts, but understood widely and acceptable in various situations.

Illustration for Idiomatic Usage
I picked up these vintage comics for a song at the flea market.
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Figurative Speech

Remember, 'for a song' is a figure of speech meaning very cheap - it doesn't involve actual singing.

Illustration for Figurative Speech
The antique clock was sold for a song at the auction.
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Metaphorical Value

The phrase suggests something's so cheap it's almost like trading it for a simple song.

Illustration for Metaphorical Value
They're giving away the old stock for a song to clear space.
Visual representation of the word "For a song"

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